Whether you’re dreaming of snowy landscapes, tropical beaches, or charming festive markets, the Christmas season offers a myriad of travel options that can create unforgettable memories. Discover our top 5 Christmas holidays with Not In The Guidebooks, from the stunning streets of Krakow to the official home of Santa Claus in Finnish Lapland.
1. A 4 Night Glass Igloo Family Adventure
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime Christmas journey to Lapland, and the official home of Santa Claus himself. Your adventure begins with a short transfer from Rovaniemi airport to the cozy haven of glass-roofed igloos, providing a front-row seat to Lapland’s star-studded night sky each night and, with luck, the incredible Northern Lights.
You don’t get much more festive than cruising through the snow-covered pine forest on a reindeer drawn sleigh, or visiting Santa’s Village at the very capital of Christmas. Throw in otherworldly Northern Lights experiences, epic husky safaris and thrilling snowmobile adventures through the frozen landscape, and you have the perfect family Lapland holiday.
2. Iceland Fire and Ice Experience
Another magical Christmas experience, this Icelandic adventure exploring the land of fire and ice at the most magical time of year. Your journey unfolds with a Reykjavik introduction, sampling local cuisine and a Northern Lights cruise. The Golden Circle beckons on day two, revealing geysers, Gulfoss waterfall, and the serene Secret Lagoon.
Day three takes you through Raufarhólshellir’s lava tube, a testament to Iceland’s volcanic past. Conclude your odyssey on the south coast, chasing Skógafoss’ cascades and conquering a glacier hike. This immersive Icelandic escapade ensures you witness southern Iceland’s wonders, uncover hidden gems, and delve into the local charm, creating memories etched in the rugged beauty of this captivating island, all at a magical time of year that gives you the very best chance of catching the Northern Lights.
3. Krakow Christmas Markets Break
Third on our list of our top 5 Christmas holidays, this break allows you to indulge in the enchanting Christmas spirit of Krakow with a holiday that blends tradition, history, and culinary mastery. Your festive adventure begins with a transfer to the Christmas Market, immersing you in the lively atmosphere where you can indulge in traditional foods and mulled wine, all whilst exploring the area, venturing into local bars and restaurants for an evening filled with Christmas cheer.
On your second day, you’ll be transported you back in time in a vintage Trabant car, on a tour that unveils the secrets of Poland’s communist era. Then, a culinary workshop awaits, allowing you to craft your own traditional Polish bagels, known as ‘obwarzanek,’ creating a delightful fusion of culture, history, and gastronomy.
Popular Christmas Holidays
4. Reims Enchanting Christmas Markets
On this festive escape to Reims, the heart of France’s Champagne region, enjoy an unforgettable Christmas tour where your journey begins with an eco-friendly Eurostar ride from London St Pancras, arriving directly in the medieval charm of Reims. Immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine with a private guide, exploring the Christmas markets, indulging in a cooking lesson and dinner that combines the very best of authentic French cuisine with festive spirit.
Delve into the Champagne region’s rolling hills and vineyards, visiting iconic spots like Champagne House Taittinger and the UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy local tastings, nighttime river cruises, and visits to traditional wineries, crafting memories of a truly magical Christmas market break.
5. Discover The Real Maldives In a Week
Somewhat cheating, but for those of you on the hunt for a Christmas holiday that escapes the cold, it doesn’t get much more idyllic or tropical than a week in the Maldives. With a beachfront room, you’ll be able to lounge in front of a white stretch of sand and warm, turquoise ocean and bathe not only in the winter sun, but your own smugness as well.
Combine this stunning climate with dolphin snorkeling trips with a marine biologist, as well as delving into authentic Maldive culture and tradition, and you have a truly unique exploration of these beautiful islands that not only treat you to a Christmas winter sun escape, but also get you under the skin of the islands so many tourists don’t truly get to know.
Here at Not In The Guidebooks, we are always on the hunt for new local, authentic travel experiences that allow you to explore the world in a responsible manner. Whether it’s a wildlife holiday in Costa Rica or a family holiday in Lapland, you can be sure that you’ll come away having not only seen a destination, but experienced it like a local.